12 Networking Strategies for Recent Graduates

8. Network Within Your Current Part-time or Internship Roles

Part-time jobs and internships are practical networking spaces where supervisors and coworkers can become advocates. Volunteer for cross-team projects and offer to help on short initiatives that expose you to new colleagues. Schedule brief check-ins with supervisors to discuss your goals and ask for specific feedback; these conversations often lead to stronger recommendations. When a coworker mentions a contact at another company, ask for an introduction rather than a vague referral request. Keep a short log of the people you meet, noting topics discussed and potential follow-ups. After a successful project, ask if your manager would provide a LinkedIn recommendation or be willing to serve as a reference. Small contributions and visible teamwork create advocates who can open doors when you’re ready to move.